Fabulous finished basement

How many renovation stories start with “One thing led to another...”? Yes, the old domino effect always thickens the plot, as it did for Style at Home art director Susan Rogers and her husband, Scott, a construction manager. When the two decided to install a second bathroom in the basement of their Toronto home, the project soon expanded to incorporate a new laundry/craft room and TV/guest room. And executing their plans meant digging down to gain headroom. Undaunted, Susan and Scott seized the opportunity to exercise their design savvy and bring their 1930s home into the 21st century with new technology, energy-efficient features and storage solutions. But wait! Don’t skip to the happy ending. As with any great story, the lessons along the way are well worth reading.

Sitting area The sectional sofa is a comfy spot to watch TV, and doubles as a pullout bed with hidden storage. A shag rug introduces texture to the tailored decor. Homeowner and Style at Home art director Susan Rogers joined two IKEA rugs with duct tape to create just the right size. Framed vintage streetcar canvases add graphic punch. How fitting that Rogers is at the top of one of them!